“Needn’t bother,” responded Mr. Elder curtly. “I’m done with these easterners and Mr. Dare.”
He was hurrying to his buggy when Bud touched him on the arm.
“Mr. Elder,” said the boy, in a businesslike tone, “I’m pretty young to make any suggestions to you, but I can help you out of your trouble. I’m sure of it.”
The angry fair official paused.
“Lafe Pennington is doing what he’s always done—when it comes to this airship business—”
“Four flushin’,” interrupted Mr. Elder. “I know that.”
“I wouldn’t put it that way,” added Bud, “but he’s doin’ what Mr. Perry says—he’s bit off more’n he can chew.”
“Well, what then? It don’t matter much. Our flyin’ man ain’t here, and don’t look as if he’d be here.”
“I can chew it.”
Mr. Elder shrugged his shoulders.